Aceh Besar, Aceh - October 31, 2025 - A minor student set fire to the Babul Maghfirah Islamic boarding school early Friday morning, police confirmed, in an incident allegedly linked to ongoing bullying by peers, raising serious concerns about student welfare and discipline at pesantren (religious boarding schools).
The fire broke out around 03:00 local time on October 31 at the boarding school’s boys’ dormitory in Gampong Lam Alue Cut, Kuta Baro District, Aceh Besar Regency. Authorities quickly responded to the blaze, which destroyed part of the asrama (dormitory) and other wooden structures before firefighters brought the flames under control. There were no reported fatalities, but significant material losses were reported.
Police later identified and arrested a 16-year-old santri (student) as the suspect in the arson case. Investigators said that CCTV footage from the pesantren captured the student entering the second floor of the vacant dormitory with a lighter, then igniting flammable materials. The blaze spread rapidly due to the wooden construction of the building, engulfing nearby facilities, including the dormitory and parts of the mess hall.
During a press briefing, Kapolresta Banda Aceh Kombes Pol Joko Heri Purwono said the suspect confessed that prolonged bullying and psychological pressure from fellow students were the main motives behind his drastic action. According to police, the teenager said he wanted to destroy belongings of peers who had frequently taunted or demeaned him. Authorities are still investigating the full circumstances and whether the bullying was reported to pesantren staff before the incident.
Local residents and other students reported hearing loud noises just before flames were spotted. One student on duty raised the alarm, allowing others to evacuate safely before firefighters arrived. Neighbors assisted in helping pupils and staff leave the compound as smoke and fire engulfed the structures. No serious injuries were reported among students or staff. (detikcom)
The boarding school’s leadership has not publicly commented on allegations of bullying leading to the fire, and spokespeople have asked the public to await further official statements. Meanwhile, police have detained the suspect at a juvenile facility in Banda Aceh under applicable child protection law while the case proceeds through the justice system. (iNews.ID)
The incident has sparked discussions among education and child welfare advocates about the need for stronger anti-bullying measures and better mental health support in pesantren environments.
Tidak ada komentar:
Posting Komentar